The 55 Best Shows & Movies About Cops, Ranked
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- Detectives and prosecutors pursue justice in the New York City streets and courtrooms.
- In 48 Hrs., Jack Cates (Nick Nolte) is a hard-nosed cop who has to navigate the gritty streets of San Francisco. He's on a time-sensitive hunt for an elusive killer, and his only lead is convict Reggie Hammond (Eddie Murphy). In an unlikely alliance, Cates springs Hammond from jail for 48 hours to help solve the case. This action-comedy flick, directed by Walter Hill, weaves together suspense and humor in a race against time storyline. As the duo unravels the mystery, they face off with dangerous criminals and their own clashing personalities.
- Die Hard, a classic action-thriller, revolves around New York cop John McClane (Bruce Willis). He's just trying to reconcile with his estranged wife, Holly (Bonnie Bedelia), at her company's Christmas Eve party. But things spiral out of control when German terrorist Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman) and his henchmen take over the high-rise building. Armed only with his wits and determination, McClane must face down the deadly adversaries, save the hostages, including his wife, and thwart Gruber's grandiose heist plan. A high-stakes game of cat and mouse ensues creating an unforgettable cinematic experience resulting in four Academy Award nominations.
- The Silence of the Lambs, a gripping thriller, introduces audiences to FBI trainee Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster). She's assigned an unnerving task: to extract information from the infamous and incarcerated cannibalistic serial killer, Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins). The objective? To help apprehend another active serial killer, Buffalo Bill (Ted Levine), before he strikes again. This chilling narrative, directed by Jonathan Demme, won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. It interweaves suspense, crime solving and psychological manipulation, creating a film that is as thought-provoking as it is horrifying.
- Two LAPD officers patrol the streets of Los Angeles.
- In the heart-pounding thriller, The Fugitive, Dr. Richard Kimble (Harrison Ford), unjustly accused of murdering his wife, must evade relentless U.S. Marshal Samuel Gerard (Tommy Lee Jones) while he uncovers the truth behind his spouse's death. This 1993 film, directed by Andrew Davis, won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor (Jones). A maze of suspenseful twists and turns, it is a captivating journey through Chicago's underbelly as Kimble races against time to clear his name and bring the real killer to justice.
- Police officer "Dirty Harry" Callahan (Clint Eastwood) is reassigned from homicide to personnel after his latest use of excessive force. Meanwhile, a terrorist group calling themselves the People's Revolutionary Strike Force organizes a series of crimes in San Francisco, hoping to enrich themselves. When they kidnap the mayor (John Crawford) and steal rockets and rifles for their next attack, Harry and his new female partner, Inspector Kate Moore (Tyne Daly), must stop the terrorists.
- 8Special agents investigate crimes related to the Navy and Marine Corps.
- An elite squad of FBI profilers analyzes the country's most-twisted criminal minds.
- In Dirty Harry, a gritty 1971 thriller, Inspector Harry Callahan (Clint Eastwood) prowls the streets of San Francisco. He's relentless, unorthodox and carries a .44 Magnum - the world's most powerful handgun. When a rooftop sniper known as Scorpio (Andy Robinson) terrorizes the city, it's up to Callahan to stop him. The film, directed by Don Siegel, is renowned for its raw portrayal of urban crime and its iconic protagonist. Despite controversy over its violence and ethical ambiguity, Dirty Harry remains a landmark in cinematic history.
- 11In a thrilling blend of crime-solving and wit, the highly acclaimed television series Castle follows the unconventional partnership between mystery novelist Richard Castle (Nathan Fillion) and no-nonsense NYPD Detective Kate Beckett (Stana Katic). Their dynamic chemistry unfolds over eight seasons as they work together to unravel New York City's most perplexing cases. Lauded for its engaging storylines and memorable characters, the show earned multiple nominations from the Primetime Emmy Awards and People's Choice Awards. Castle's unique combination of suspense, humor, and evolving relationships keeps viewers engaged through its eight seasons.
- Private investigator Thomas Magnum solves crimes in Hawaii.
- 13Set against the rough backdrop of 1970s New York, Kojak is a police procedural drama that follows the hard-nosed, incorruptible Detective Theo Kojak (Telly Savalas) with his iconic bald charm and a penchant for lollipops. As he leads his team of detectives through the city's maze of crime, Kojak's signature phrase "Who loves ya, baby?" becomes synonymous with his unorthodox methods and tough exterior, which mask a deep compassion - and a relentless pursuit of justice. The primary themes of the series include the battle against corruption, the moral ambiguities of police work, and the struggle for integrity. Savalas's portrayal of Kojak earned him an Emmy and a Golden Globe, cementing the show's place in classic TV lore.
- 14In Seven, Detective William Somerset (Morgan Freeman), a seasoned but weary crime fighter, partners with the young and impulsive Detective David Mills (Brad Pitt) to investigate a series of grisly murders. Each murder uniquely represents one of the seven deadly sins - a chilling theme that pervades the movie. The film, directed by David Fincher, is dark and atmospheric, delivering an intense thriller that delves into the heart of human depravity. As the detectives unravel each horrifying crime, they are drawn deeper into a twisted killer's methodical madness. A critical success, this 1995 film won an MTV Movie Award for Best Movie.
- 15In the realm of classic television, there exists a detective series that masterfully combines elements of mystery, drama, and subtle humor. Columbo has garnered numerous accolades, including 13 Primetime Emmy Awards, highlighting its impact on both audiences and critics alike. At the core of its success is the quirky yet brilliant Lieutenant Columbo (Peter Falk), whose unassuming demeanor and seemingly disorganized methods often lull suspects into a false sense of security. The show cleverly subverts traditional whodunit tropes by revealing the perpetrator's identity early on, allowing viewers to revel in the cat-and-mouse game that unfolds between the detective and the culprit. With its rich character development and engaging storylines, Columbo remains a timeless classic that continues to enthrall generations of fans.
- Hill Street Blues, a groundbreaking police drama, revolutionized television with its realistic portrayal of the daily lives and struggles faced by the officers and detectives of an urban precinct. Garnering numerous awards and nominations, including 98 Emmy nods, the series consistently presented a raw and gritty atmosphere that captivated audiences throughout its seven-season run. The ensemble cast, led by Captain Frank Furillo (Daniel J. Travanti) and Sergeant Phil Esterhaus (Michael Conrad), navigated the complexities of crime, personal relationships, and bureaucracy with a perfect balance of intensity and occasional humor. Pioneering the serialized storytelling format, Hill Street Blues remains an influential force in modern television.
- An investigation team in Las Vegas scours crime scenes for forensic evidence.
- A multigenerational family of police officers dedicated to enforcing the law in New York.
- Charismatic psychopath Greg Powell (James Woods) teams up with Jimmy Youngblood (Franklyn Seales), a petty thief. Driving in Los Angeles in 1963, they are pulled over by Detective Hettinger (John Savage) and his partner, Campbell (Ted Danson), for an illegal U-turn. Panicked, Powell kidnaps the officers and kills Campbell. Hettinger escapes, and his description of the men leads to their arrest. As both men evade prosecution with legal tricks, Hettinger is racked with guilt over his survival.
- NYPD Blue, a gritty crime drama series, delves into the lives and work of detectives at Manhattan's 15th precinct. With its unapologetic portrayal of complex characters and emotionally-charged storylines, the show garnered critical acclaim during its twelve-season run. At the heart of the series is Detective Andy Sipowicz (Dennis Franz), whose personal struggles and dedication to his profession form an engaging narrative arc. The show boasts a remarkable ensemble cast and has received numerous awards, including multiple Primetime Emmy Awards. NYPD Blue remains a benchmark in the world of television dramas, thanks to its thought-provoking content and compelling character development.
- In the gritty crime thriller, The Departed, Billy Costigan (Leonardo DiCaprio) is a young undercover cop in Boston who infiltrates an Irish mob run by the ruthless Frank Costello (Jack Nicholson). Simultaneously, Colin Sullivan (Matt Damon), a criminal planted within the state police, climbs the ranks. As both sides become deeply entrenched in their disguises, they grapple with divided loyalties and deadly stakes. Directed by Martin Scorsese, this intense cat-and-mouse game won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. The movie's layered plot mirrors a complex labyrinth of deception and betrayal.
- Delving into the depths of unsolved mysteries, this crime drama series takes viewers on a journey through time as its dedicated team of detectives, led by Lilly Rush (Kathryn Morris), works tirelessly to bring closure to long-forgotten cases. The show's unique storytelling approach, weaving together past and present narratives, has garnered critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase. Its ensemble cast delivers powerful performances that breathe life into the complex characters they portray. With each episode exploring a new case, the series is not only a thrilling and suspenseful ride but also a poignant reflection on the human stories behind every cold case.
- Hawaii Five-0, an action-packed police procedural drama, gracefully showcases the picturesque landscape of Hawaii while delving into its rich cultural heritage. The series has garnered several award nominations for its exceptional storytelling and stellar performances. At its core, the show follows a skilled task force led by Steve McGarrett (Alex O'Loughlin) and Danny Williams (Scott Caan), as they tackle high-profile crimes across the islands. Each episode blends thrilling action sequences with moments of heartfelt camaraderie among the team members, creating an engaging and immersive viewing experience. Steeped in local lore and traditions, Hawaii Five-0 offers a refreshing take on the classic crime-solving genre.
- In the 1967 drama In the Heat of the Night, Virgil Tibbs (Sidney Poitier), a black police detective from Philadelphia, becomes embroiled in a murder investigation in a racially hostile southern town. He reluctantly teams up with Bill Gillespie (Rod Steiger), the local bigoted sheriff, to solve the case. The film, directed by Norman Jewison, expertly blends elements of mystery and social commentary. It won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Steiger. Its exploration of racial tension remains relevant even today.
- Die Hard 2, an action-packed thriller, sees the return of NYPD officer John McClane (Bruce Willis), who is waiting for his wife at Washington's Dulles Airport. Unbeknownst to him, a group of rogue military operatives led by Colonel Stuart (William Sadler) has seized control of the airport, holding the planes hostage in mid-air. As police and airport security scramble, it's up to McClane to take matters into his own hands. Director Renny Harlin masterfully escalates tension throughout this high-stakes sequel that blends suspense, action, and Willis's iconic one-liners.
- 26In a skillful fusion of mystery and comedy, this award-winning show delves into the life of Adrian Monk (Tony Shalhoub), an extraordinary detective with an obsessive-compulsive disorder. As he solves intricate cases with his keen eye for detail, viewers are treated to a nuanced portrayal of the challenges faced by individuals with OCD. The series has garnered multiple accolades, including eight Primetime Emmy Awards, with Shalhoub's exceptional performance being widely lauded. Through its engrossing narratives and memorable characters, Monk masterfully balances suspense and humor, making it a must-watch for fans of the crime-solving genre.
- Set in the bustling heart of New York City, Brooklyn Nine-Nine is a comedic gem that has garnered numerous accolades, including two Golden Globe Awards, for its witty and engaging storytelling. The ensemble cast, led by Detective Jake Peralta (Andy Samberg), navigates the eccentricities of the 99th precinct while solving crimes and forging lasting relationships. With its diverse array of characters, such as the stoic Captain Raymond Holt (Andre Braugher) and the tough-as-nails Sergeant Rosa Diaz (Stephanie Beatriz), this police procedural sitcom effortlessly balances humor with moments of heartfelt sincerity. Over seven seasons, Brooklyn Nine-Nine has consistently charmed audiences with its clever writing and memorable catchphrases, making it a standout in the realm of television comedy.
- 28Bullitt is a hard-hitting classic action thriller that has stood the test of time. Steve McQueen stars as Frank Bullitt, a gritty San Francisco cop who's unyielding in his pursuit of justice. When a witness under his protection gets assassinated, Bullitt defies his superiors and dives headlong into the murky underworld to find out who betrayed them. Known for its iconic car chase scene through the hilly streets of San Francisco, Bullitt won an Academy Award for Best Film Editing. Its raw intensity, coupled with Lalo Schifrin's pulsating score, makes this movie a riveting watch from start to finish.
- In the gritty world of Quentin Tarantino's Reservoir Dogs, a group of seasoned criminals, including Mr. White (Harvey Keitel) and Mr. Pink (Steve Buscemi), find themselves embroiled in a high-stakes diamond heist gone awry. Directed with Tarantino's signature blend of dark humor and visceral violence, the movie unfolds primarily in a warehouse, where the men grapple with trust issues and the looming threat of police capture. The film weaves a complex narrative web through flashbacks, revealing more about each character's backstory while keeping audiences on edge. A critical success, it helped establish Tarantino as a force to be reckoned with in cinema.
- The Mentalist, a crime procedural drama, masterfully weaves suspense and wit into a compelling narrative that keeps viewers engaged throughout its seven-season run. The show follows Patrick Jane (Simon Baker), a former psychic medium turned consultant for the California Bureau of Investigation, as he uses his keen observational skills and psychological prowess to solve baffling cases. His unorthodox methods often clash with the by-the-book approach of Senior Special Agent Teresa Lisbon (Robin Tunney). Throughout the series, the pursuit of the elusive serial killer Red John remains an underlying thread, adding a personal touch to Jane's relentless quest for justice. Garnering critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, The Mentalist proves to be an intelligent and captivating addition to the crime drama genre.
